Illinois governor signs law requiring major-injury insurance for school athletes

Illinois high schools will have to insure athletes for major injuries suffered on the playing field under a bill signed by Gov. Pat Quinn at a Sunday ceremony.

The new law requires coverage for young people seriously hurt in school-sponsored sports for at least five years or $3 million in benefits, whichever comes first. Officials estimate the cost at less than $5 per athlete, per season. Schools that already require student-athletes to provide their own private insurance are exempt.